Well, I saw it last night. (Sneak Preview showings at the cinema.)
By the way, that quote was from someone I heard as I entered the cinema.
I've read all 5 books, though I'm no Potter fanatic. Thus, I understand why a lot of changes were made. While the first 2 movies tried to be visual versions of the book that were cut to 2.5 hours, POA instead is an adaption BASED on the book. Because of this, it is a better film.
I ain't gonna spoil anything, so no major details. The (in my opinion) superior directing is not noticed right away, but you eventually notice things are a lot less "by the book" (literaly) and convential. Lots of clever shots, scenes, and even a few blink-and-you-miss-it gags.
The castle looked more like a medievil castle, rather than a pristine disneyland castle. (I know about castles, living in Scotland.) The "darker" feeling gives the film a more tense feel. The CGI is still as extravigant as in the first 2 movies, but its put to better use. The dementors were well done, as was Buckbeak the Hippogriff.
The acting was good all around, with Alan Rickman as Snape once again shining. Lupin, although not quite how I imagined him, was excellent. Kudos to Gary Oldman as Sirius Black. The kids are good, especially Emma Watson and Rupert Grint.
This is my fave John Williams score in a long time. I felt in the first two movies his music didn't match the scenes. Here however, the score matches what you're watching excellently. Which, after all, is the point of movie soundtracks.
I had a few gripes. Many subplots were completely taken out, notibly the Hogwarts Quiddich Cup. Those who haven't read the book may have difficulty following certain parts of the plot.
Overall, this is an excellent movie. AND I SAW IT BEFORE MOST OF YOU...
heh heh
Overall, this is a superior movie